Effects of Aging on Patients

Ageing causes different effects, such as physical and mental declines in a person. Knowledge of these effects will help a nursing assistant to provide proper care for the elderly patient.

The following effects are generally seen in all elderly patients:

Heart size increases and there is a decrease in cardiac output. This reduces the blood flow to the organs. There is also a decrease in the elasticity of blood vessels and reduced blood cell production. Decreased circulation also affects balance.

There is a decrease in bladder capacity, metabolic rate, secretion of saliva, peripheral vision and sphincter control.

Liver function slows down and there is a reduction in the absorption of nutrients.

Eardrums thicken and there is an increase in wax production.

There is a decline in the sense of taste, smell and touch.

Hormone production decreases, sexual responses slow down and there is atrophy of the reproductive organs.

Hypertension, arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and obesity are commonly seen in older adults.

There are memory issues, such as loss of memory, unable to recall events, and reduced cognitive function.

Nursing assistants should encourage the following behaviors in elderly patients for a healthy lifestyle:

Encourage the patient to eat a healthy diet, as it delays aging. Add seasonings to counter the loss of taste.

Encourage the patient to exercise regularly, as physical activity such as walking, biking, swimming, postpones the effects of aging. Exercise also reduces the risk of osteoporosis, hypertension, and diabetes.

Encourage the patient to care for themselves and perform activities of daily living (ADLs).

Encourage cognitive exercises such as reading, writing, solving puzzles, and using a computer, to aid cognitive functioning.